Hi Everyone;

It's been a while since I have looked at the blog, so my Sunday morning chat with mom inspired me to log on.

I was at the meeting with the fat men today and tomorrow I have my one on one with Harvey. He's a no-nonsense kind of a guy and as he says, all you need to do is stay on the programme. This means eating the right stuff (Angie, you have rememebered Slick well-cake, cookies, candy, chips, pizza, fries, muffins, etc regrettably are not on this healthy life plan). Harvey commented on Weight Watchers and he can't understand how by passing on some units, you can make room for chocolate or a piece of cake. It is simply not helpful for those of us who might find one little piece ok, which inevitably leads to more abuse.

Quantity is the other part of it. Portions are generally larger than any food guide would suggest is required, at restaurants and buffets are a disaster about to happen-imagine eating as much as you can; now how does that develop good eating habits. Buffets are off of my list as well.

I'm not sure if I shared his one lecture before, but here is what he said about being successful in the programme and thereafter for every day for the rest of your life. Yes, this has no end.

1. What is your motive for being on the programme? Either the elimination of pain or the pursuit of pleasure are the key drivers.

2. You need a plan of attack. You must be informed; must be dedicated; must be coachable and most importantly willing to give up doing it your own way.

3. You need to keep positive energy. If you make mistakes, get back on track. Don't give up and don't fight the clock.

4. Stay tough. Get in a comfort zone and watch for all the pitfalls that come with people about to sabotage you. Portions may grow and the two grains and two proteins concept is abandoned. Stop weighing and measuring yourself all of the time. Increase your intensity to ensure you make right choices and stay with your convictions.

5. Have patience. Especially in the face of small setbacks.

6. Turn anxiety into power. By overcoming our fear of success having achieved our weight loss, which requires a life long commitment, we have developed real power. In other words, only self confrontation to responsibility reaps results.

A quote on the board today was the following:

"The value of your goal is the path that you take to reach it...the rockier the path, the stronger you'll grow. Move forward. Take action. And make it happen." Unknown Author

I lost a pound and a half in the last two weeks, but I have a suspicion that after tomorrow, I'll really get serious and probably buy some personal coaching as well. I know that I need help.

On another note, if it's alright with everyone, we'd like to host Thanksgiving on Sunday, October 7.

I see from the blogs that all is well with everyone which is great to see-Birgie your healing is outstanding. And yes I am starting to become aware that a new little guy is coming into our lives. I know it will be life altering.


Ham